Nas-Backed Queens Casino Plan Clears Major Hurdle as Jay-Z’s Bid Collapses

A plan to grow Resorts World Casino in Queens, with rap icon Nas as a key partner, has won full backing from New York’s Community Advisory Committee, moving it closer to getting a prized state casino license.

Casino Project in Queens Gets Green Light Promising 24,000 New Jobs

The $5.5 billion venture set at the Aqueduct Racetrack site moved forward on September 25 after a 6-0 committee vote. This choice comes just days after a competing plan in Times Square, backed by Jay-Z along with Caesars and SL Green Realty, failed due to strong opposition from theater owners and Manhattan locals.

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, who voted to approve, couldn’t help but mention the long-running rivalry between the two rap stars, reported The New York Post. He said Queens had won again, which many took as a friendly dig at Jay-Z’s unsuccessful attempt. Richards also pointed to borough pride, hinting that the win showed Queens’ growing role in shaping the city’s economic future.

The Resorts World expansion aims to do more than just add casino games. The plans include poker and blackjack tables, a venue that seats 7,000 people for shows, and an academy for sports and media linked to NBA champ Kenny “The Jet” Smith. The people behind this project think it will create 24,000 jobs and bring in a lot of new tax money for both the city and state.

Queens and Yonkers Casino Plans Gain Steam as State Approaches Final License Choices

Nas, who became part of the team in 2024, once said this project would help working families and grow future leaders. He did not show up at Thursday’s meeting, but his backers said his involvement proves the project will mean a lot to Queens, both money-wise and culture-wise.

At the same time, Roc Nation President Desiree Perez expressed frustration about Brooklyn and Manhattan turning down their proposal. She argued that critics failed to see how Jay-Z’s plan in collaboration with Caesars could benefit the area in the long run.

Experts in the field point out that the Queens and Yonkers “racinos” started with an edge. Both Resorts World and MGM’s Empire City Casino already run slot parlors, which gives them strong local connections and shows they can make money. MGM’s proposal for Yonkers also got the green light this week, which leaves fewer contenders in the race.

The New York State Gaming Commission holds the ultimate say, with plans to give out up to three full casino licenses by the end of the year. Other hopefuls include plans for Coney Island, the Bronx, and a team-up between Mets owner Steve Cohen and Hard Rock close to Citi Field.